Costs Associated with Assisted Living

Many assisted living facilities charge a flat rate fee each month for care, room and board and all services rendered. However, that policy differs from facility to facility. Be aware that you might be charged additional fees, depending on the assisted living facility and the level of service that you require. For example, some assisted living facilities have “levels” of care and monthly rates that reflect that. Be alert to the following possible fees that are associated with assisted living:

• Application fees. You may be charged a fee to apply for a room or apartment in an assisted living facility or apartment complex for retirees, or for a bed in a nursing home.
• Initial assessment fee. This fee may be charged for assessing the senior’s needs in order to determine if the senior is a good fit for the facility and if the facility is right for the needs that he senior has. This fee is usually charged by nursing homes.
• Security deposit. This is a refundable deposit that is charged (much like the deposit on a home or apartment rental) that will cover the cost of cleaning and repairs when the senior moves out of the facility. Most facilities will require that a security deposit is placed on hold for the period of time that the senior lives in the facility.
• Entrance fee. This fee may be charged for becoming a resident of the facility, and is more common among retirement communities.
• Personal care. Some facilities that don’t provide personal care to all residents will charge a fee for these services when they are requested.
• Incontinence care. Some assisted living facilities charge extra for caring for an incontinent senior, to defer labor and supply costs.
• Nursing care. If more specialized nursing care is required, the senior may have to pay extra for it.
• Cable, telephone, Internet and utilities. If the senior wishes to have cable, telephone, or Internet service, the cost is additional in most facilities. Some facilities require that the resident pay for other utilities as well, like electricity and water. Residential care homes usually include these fees in the monthly cost of living in the facility.
• Beauty salon. Some assisted living facilities provide an on-site salon, and seniors must pay additional costs for services rendered there.
• Field trips. Scheduled trips for residents may be at cost to the resident in some facilities.
• Transportation. Transportation to and from appointments, shopping, or to run errands may incur additional fees.
• Housekeeping or laundry services. Depending on the facility, housekeeping services and laundry services may be an added expense. Residential care homes usually include these services in the monthly cost of living in the facility, so there is no extra charge.
• Guest meals. Having a guest for dinner may incur a separate charge at some facilities.
• Pets. Some facilities allow residents to bring along a pet, but they may be charged a pet deposit that is usually refundable.

When choosing a facility or a care option, be sure to discuss what is and is not included in the basic monthly fee, and what payment options are available. Many facilities have on-site social workers who will work closely with your family to make staying in their facility possible, and will help point you toward any government programs that can assist you as well.